s^l 



riEMINQTON.N.J. 



^ ^ .< Flemington, New Jersey, -^ * - 

ILLUSTRATED, 



:: BY 



BiC3, 



:: WITH :: 



h SMORT HISTORICAL SKETCH BY JOHN L. CONNET, 

OF THE FLEMINGTON BAR. 



KLHMINT.TON, X. J. 
1898. 

L 



copvru;ht, isqs. hv e. k. rice. 



J. C. SrXDERI.IN. 

PHOTOGRAPH KR, 

KLEMINGTON, N. J. 



PHOTO ENGRAVING COMPANY, 
9 TO 15 MURRAY STRF.KT, 
NKW YORK. 



TWO COPIES RECEIVED. 



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V 










FLEMINGTON, NEW JERSEY. 

ITS ADVANTAGES FOR RESIDENCE AND BUSINESS. 

9^^ ^^* 9^^ 9^^ 

IT is believed that this town offers inducements for residence and business not possessed by 
many larger and better known places. This little booklet endeavors to set forth the reasons 
for this belief. The location of the town is good. Situated midway between New York 
and Philadelphia, it is within easy access of both cities. The means of communication are indeed 
unsurpassed, for a small town. There are fifty-four daily pa.ssenger trains on the three railroads 
which enter the place. It takes by express train only one hour and twenty-three minutes to go 
from Flemington to Cortlandt Street, New York. Both local and long distance telephone lines 
are here. Two great express companies, the United States and the Adams, have ofl&ces here, and 
make quick delivery to all parts of the country. The Western Union and the Postal Telegraph 
Cable Company, have direct wires to the town. There are twenty incoming and outgoing mails each 
day. It is doubtful if any town of 2,000 inhabitants, in the state, offers similar conveniences. 
Flemington is well equipped in regard to water supply, lighting, and sewerage arrangements. A 




Main Street, Looking North. 



pure and abundant supply of water is brought from springs in the surrounding hills. Both the 
gas and electric light plants are adequate to all demands and give the best of lighting facilities. 
A first-class sewer is about completed. The town is noted for its healthfulness and also for its 
entire immunity from all malarial diseases. It is practically exempt from the visitations of that 
noted denizen of New Jersey — the mosquito. Good roads radiate in all directions, affording most 
pleasant drives through the great peach section of the state. The scenery is attractive, presenting 
varied pictures of hill and valley, of great peach orchards, of thriving hamlets, of prosperous 
farms, and of beautiful suburban residences dotting many hillsides. The South Branch of the 
Raritan river, about a mile distant, has many picturesque views, and gives opportunities for 
good fishing and boating. The town makes a delightful place to spend the summer in, and during 
recent years, many have availed themselves of the privilege. And for permanent residence, it 
possesses many advantages not afforded by some larger towns. A few words more should be said about 
the place itself. All the leading religious denominations are represented, some of them by handsome 
edifices. There is an excellent public school system. Boys graduating from the High School have 
entered Princeton and other colleges without further preparation. The people of the town are 
educated and refined, and there are many pleasant social functions during the year. The town 
has some fine and substantial business structures, and some pleasant residences. There are some 
excellent stores in various lines of trade. The leading business men of the place, through whose 
interest in Flemington this publication was made possible, are represented in the business pages. 
The town oilers some excellent sites for manufacturing purposes, in proximity to the various rail- 
road stations. Reliable firms who can bring the proper credentials, and especially those employing 
male, adult labor, will be given special inducements by the busniess men of the town. The railroad, 
freight, express, telegraphic and mail facilities of the town are e.specially advantageous to manu- 
facturing establishments. In conclusion, we would say, if you want a place for residence, or if 
you are interested in business sites, do not neglect to investigate the merits of Flemington. 




Pennsylvania R. R. 



Lehigh Valley R. R. 
RAILROAD STATIONS. 



Central R. R. ok X, J. 



^ A SHORT HISTORICAL SKETCH .* 



: BY : 



JOHN L. CONNET. 



t^t^ tJ* 



■N' 



rESTLING among the hills of Hunterdon, one of the 
finest and most fertile counties in New Jersey, and 
near the county s centre, lies the lovely and thriv- 
ing village of Fleniington. '■ Beautiful for situation" 
are words that can be most fittingly and appropriately applied 
to it. On an elevation about 185 feet above sea level, it still 
lies ill a valley in a rich setting of sloping hills. When 
these encircling hills are clad in rich verdure and autumn 
foliage, it looks like a jewel set in emerald and gold. 
Beautiful over-archmg trees line its streets, and in summer 
add much to its altraciiveness. Three principal streets trav- 
erse it from north to south, which are intersected by manj' 
cross streets. These are built up with handsome residences 
and fine business houses. 

About fifty miles from New York and Philadelphia, it is 
easily accessible to both of these great cities. 

Flemingtou had its birth in the last century. It was in 
1756 that Samuel Fleming, from whom the town took its 
name, and who 01 igiually came from Ireland, purchased a 
tract ot land and erected the first house, which is still stand- 
ing on what is now Bonnell Street, near where Reading 
Academy now stands. It is a very modest structure now as 
compared with buildings of more recent date and style, but 
when erected it could lay claim to considerable pretentious- 
ness. It was called " Fleming's Castle." People came from 
long distances to see it. For a long time it was used as a 
public house, and there is no doubt but that the great Wash- 
ington was entertained there when he was in these parts 
during the Revolutionary struggle. 



As other houses were erected and the place grew, the town 
was called Fleming's. This name adhered to it for a con- 
siderable time, and it is uncertain just when the name took 
on an additional syllable. 

As early as 1712 nearly all the land covering the site of 
the present village, and much besides, was owned by three 
proprietors, William Penn, Daniel Coxe and Joseph Kirk- 
bridge. Some old deeds have the latter name " Kirkbride," 
while other prints give the name as Kirkbridge. A hill ad- 
joining tiie town is still known as " Cose's Hill," from the 
name of the early owner of the land. 

Just west of the village there was for a long time in the 
early days an Indian encampment, and one of the old chiefs 
of the tribe, Tuccamirdan, rests in an old burying ground 
not far away. Tradition savs that he was buried in an up- 
right position, with his pipes, blanket and implements of 
war, and that all night, on the night of his burial, a wild 
Indian religious dance was kept up. The spot is often 
visited by the curious. 

The Re\ oluTIOn. — At the time of the war for indepen- 
dence Flemington had assumed considerable size, and it 
became in some degree a centre for military operations. 
Thomas Lowery, the son-in-law of Samuel Fleming, whose 
daughter Esther he married, was a man of prominence m 
the neighborhood, and in 1775 he represented Hunterdon 
County in the Provincial Congress. Both he and his wife 
were devoted to the American cause, and Lowery was com- 
missioned Lieutenant-Colonel of the third regiment of 



militia of the State troops. He was afterward proiuoted to 
the rank of Colonel. 

During the war General Charles Stewart resided at Lands- 
down, a few miles north, and here General Washington and 
his wife were frequent visitors. 

After the >\ar General Stewart removed to Flemington, 
and was a Representative in Congress in 1784 and 1785. He 
died at Flemington in 1800. 

Near where the Presbyterian church in Flemington now 
stands was a building in which was stored a considerable 
quantity of .\merican arms. The British commander feared 
that Flemington was to be made a rendezvous, and that the 
stored muskets were to be used for arming the militia. A 
detachment of the American army was encamped about two 
miles west of Flemington, near Gray's Hill, and Washing- 
ton had his lieadquarters at the house of General Stewart. 
In the latter part of 1776, while the British forces lay at 
Trenton, a detachment of cavalry started from Trenton to 
Flemington for the purpose of foraging and capturing these 
arms, and also with a view of taking Lowery prisoner and 
seizing the supplies in his custody. At Pennington they 
halteil, and sent an advance guard of about twenty light- 
horsemen under the command of Cornet Geary, an officer of 
the Queen's Light Dragoons. These proceeded to Fleming- 
ton by way of Ringoes. They destroyed the arms in the 
storehouse and placed the King's seal on the building. 

They were frightened away by the statement that tliere 
was a large American force just over the hill, and hastily 
started back to Pennington. But as they hail come tnrough, 
the dwellers about Ringoes had become alarmed, and, under 
the leadership of Captain John Schenck, they armed them- 
selves and united to oppose their return. They secreted 
themselves in the woods just below Copper Hill, and when 
the British came along, poured in a sharp fire upon them. 
Captain Schenck shouted and gave orders to his men as 
though he was commanding a large body of troops, thus 
misleading the enemy as to the opposing forces. Cornet 



Geary formed his men in the road and returned the fire. 
But after a few shots he fell from liii horse mortally 
wounded ; his troops became panic stricken and fled in 
terror. Geary's body was buried in the edge of the woods 
near by. Recently, in order to prove the fact, which for a 
long time was largely tradition, the grave was opened under 
the direction of the Hunterdon County Historical Society, 
in the presence of several witnesses, and all doubt was re- 
moved. Uttle WHS found, however, except some silver 
buttons and fringe from the officer's uniform The buttons 
bore the inscription " Q. L. D. 16," and are now among the 
possessions of the Hunterdon County Historical Society, 
under whose direction the investigation was made. 

It is stated that Cornet Geary belonged to an aristocratic 
family in England, and was a man of fine physique and 
gentlemanly bearing. 

Tlie first court-house in Flemington was erected in 1791, 
and it is probable that the town then became the C' unty 
seat. Before that time the courts of Hunterdon County 
had been held at Trenton, the County of Mercer being then 
a part of Hunterdon. This building was burned in 1828, 
and the present structure erected in the same year. The 
county offices are in a large brick building just north of the 
court-house, which was built in 1S70. 

In 1844 the population of Flemington was about 600. 
Thk Civil W.\r. — In the war of the Rebellion this 
lowu took a conspicuous part. At the first call for troops 
in .\pril, 1S61, a company of men was org nized and went 
to the front, becoming Company H of the third regiment of 
New Jersey Militia Volunteers 

The company was raised bv .A. V. Bonnell, Esq. He was 
afterward commissioned Brigade Inspector of New Jersey 
troops, and George A. Allen, a prominent lawyer of the 
place, became captain. Their term of enlistment was for 
three months, and after their return, almost all i>f them, 
with a great many others, enlisted in other organizations, 
and some of them continued in the service during the whole 



period of the war. Some of them gave up their lives on 
their country's altar, a willing sacrifice for their country and 
their flag. 

Col. Lambert Boenian, who went out as Major of the 
gallant 15th New Jersey, was killed at Cedar Creek, Va., 
while acting as Colonel of the loth New Jersey. His body 
lies buried in the Presbyterian church yard here. Near the 
fair grounds, just north of the town, was a state encamp- 
ment, and there the 15th, 30th, 31st, and 35tli regiments 
were encamped before going to the front. 

Immediately in front ot the Presbyterian church, at the 
division of the road, stands a beautiful monument, com 
memorative of the soldiers and sailors w'ho tell in the war. 
This was erected by the citizens under the leadership of the 
Grand Army Post and tlie Woman's Relief Corps of this 
place. 

Copper Mines. — On the western outskirts of this village 
are the Flemington copper mines. For a number of years 
these mines were worked extensively, but not with very 
great profit. 

Before the Revolution evidences of copper had been 
discovered in the vicinity, but it was not until 1836 that 
much effort was made toward development. In that year 
the Neshanic Mining Company was formed. This com- 
pany purchased property and did considerable work. 

In 1846 another company was formed, and as late as 
1867, The Hunterdon Cupper Company was incorporated. 
Between the two latter periods considerable work was 
done and much money expended in the development of 
these mines, and in the sinking of shafts, putting in ma 
chinery and erecting buildings. Not much work, however. 
has been done since 1863. It is stated on good authority 
that there is undoubtedly a large and valuable body of cop- 
per ore in this region. 

At the present time Flemington has a population of a 
little more than 2,000, and is a delightful residence town, 
as well as a thriving business place. The streets are broad 



and finely adorned with beautiful shade trees. There are 
many handsome residences with capacious grounds and 
lawns, and the owners take much pride in keeping their 
properties in excellent repair. The business portion of the 
town IS graced with large, handsome stores, offices and 
public buildings. 

Tlie climate here is salubrious and unsurpassed for 




The Fleming House, Erected 1756. 

healthful elements. The locality is free from malaria and 
pulmonary difficulties, and in all respects is exceedingly 
delightful. 

Pleasant drives and transcendent views from the sur- 
rounding hills are delightful and attractive features of the 
village and vicinity. From these eminences the eye travels 



over long stretches of beautiful landscape, catching in the 
sweep of its vision quiet valley and rugged hill, fertile 
farms and majestic forests, until vision is lost in the hazy, 
blue horizon. It is said that from one high point it is 
possible, with a strong glass, to see New York Harbor on 
a bright day. 

Business. —The business of the town comprises almost 
all features of trade. There are two banks, two foundries, 
machine shop, steam flour mill, saw mill, general store, 
stationery and book store, clothing stores, notion stores, 
furnishing stores, hardware stores, furniture stores, shoe 
stores, groceries, millinery establishments, hotels, restau- 
rants, green house, carriage factories and many other en- 
terprises. 

Banks. — There are two National Banks in Flemington — 
the Hunterdon County National and the Flemington Na- 
tional. 

The former was organized as a State bank in 1854 and 
became a National bank in 1865. The capital is $100,000. 
The president is Jonathan Higgins and the cashier A. H. 
Rittenhouse. 

The Flemington National Bank was incorporated in 
1876 with $100,000 capital. During the past year a hand- 
some banking house has been erected. It is equipped with 
latest modern vault, safe, and safe deposit boxes. William 
Richards, a prominent merchant, is president. N. D. Stigt-r 
is cashier. 

Hotels. — It is safe to say that no town of its size has 
finer accommodations for the traveling public than has 
Flennngton. 

There are three excellent hostelries in which every con- 
venience and comfort is aflforded. Tempting tables arc 
spread and comfortable rooms provided. 

In addition to transient guests, the desirability of the 
town as a pleasant spot for spending the summer attracts 
many persons here during that season, who take up their 
quarters at one or other of these hotels. 



W.^TER SurPLV. — The Flemington Water Company was 
incorporated in 1859 by special act of the Legislature, the 
incorporators being Charles Bartles, John G. Reading. 
John L. Janeway, .\lexander Wurts. Hugh Capner. Alex- 
ander V. Bonnell and Bennet Van Syckel. 

The purpose was to make reservoirs, lay pipes from 
water sources outside of the village and supply the village 
and vicinity with water for house and street purposes ami 
the extinguishment of fires. 

()riginally the water was brought to Flemington through 
pipes laid from several springs on the high grounds west 
of the village. For a considerable time these springs fur- 
nished sufficient water for all desired purposes, but as the 
town grew and the population increased, a larger supply 
was needed, and pit es were laid to Kershaw's mill, on the 
South Branch of the Raritan River, some two miles dis- 
tant. From that place the water is pumped into two larg-r 
reservoirs, which provide an abundant supply for house, 
business, street and fire purposes. Large mains traverse the 
principal streets, and the gravity pressure is sufBcient to 
force the water to the top of the highest building in the 
place. 

Long before the formation of the present company, 
and the establishment of the present system, away back in 
the early part of the century, when the town was still 
small, there was a system by which water was brought 
through bored logs from Coxe's Hill, and there were at 
least two fire plugs and water places in the town. The 
logs decayed and the system went out of use years ago. 
Traces of the old log pipes have recently been found be- 
neath the street surface. 

Lighting System. — The lighting facilities of Fleming- 
ton are extraordinarily good. 

Both gas and electric systems are utilized. 

The Flemington Gas Light Company was incorporated 
in 1859. largely through the influence and activity of Mr. 
John C. Hopewell. The incorporators were John C. 



Hopewell, Charles Bartles. John L. Janeway. John G. 
Reading and Bennet Van Syckel. Almost all the houses 
and many of the business places are lighted with gas. With 
the exception of the oil lamp, this was the only system of 
lighting until very recently. 

In 1894 electricity was introduced and a plant placed 
here. The streets are lighted with forty-two large arc 
lights and eight incandescent lights, and many private 
houses and business places have incandescent lights 

Sewer System — Until the present year Flemington had 
no effective system of sewerage. But during this year a 
sewer bed has been prepared, and sewer mains are now be- 
ing laid. When this is completed, Flemington will be sec- 
ond to no town of its size in the State in point of modern 
advantages and improvements. 

Fire Dep.artmenT. — Flemington has a well-equipped 
volunteer fire department for a country village. 

.•\s early as 1842 a Fire Company was formed and incor- 
porated, but no fire engine was in use in the town until 
1862. At that time the citizens purchased a steamer and 
hose carriage, and a new company was organized. This 
continued for a considerable time, and was then disbanded. 
The present company was organized in 1879, and has ren- 
dered effective service. The President of the company is 
John Parks, and Howard Sutphin is secretary. 

On Sept. 10. 1883, a Hook and Ladder Company was or- 
ganized, and hook and ladder truck and equipment pur- 
chased. The members are uniformed and have joined 
in many parades, and each time have elicited unbounded 
praise. They, as well as the steamer company, have ren- 
dered the town good service in time of fire. Their pres- 
ident is Henry B. Green and Edgar S. Shepherd is secre 
tary. 

The town furnishes a good house for all apparatus and a 
room for the meetings of the respective companies. 

Railroads. — The railroad facilities of the town are un- 
surpassed. There is. perhaps, no town of its size in the 



state that has better railroad advantages than has Flem- 
ington. Branches of three systems center here, and afford 
easy access not only to all parts of the State, but to the 
great cities and the contiguous States. 




The Court House. 

In 1852 a railroad line was built to Lambertville to con- 
nect with the Belvidere division of the great Pennsylvania 
Railroad system. This gave direct communication with 
Trenton and Philadelphia. 



In 1863 the South Branch Railroad was built and con- 
nected with the New Jersey Central at Somerville, and 
brought New York City almost to our doors. Before the 
completion of that branch the New York mails were 
brought by stage from White House, and during the ear- 
lier years of the war throngs of people would wait expec- 
tantly the arrival of the old stage coach, that they might 
get the papers and glean the latest news from the front. 

A little later the Easton & Amboy Railroad was con- 
structed, and a branch built from Flemington Junction, 
two miles distant, into Flemington, By either of the two 
latter roads we are within an hour and twenty-three min- 
utes of New York City. 

Business Buildings. — The principal business buildings 
are represented in this booklet, and among the more 
prominent ones are the Deats Building. Hopewell Hall, 
the Shields Building and the Richards Building. These 
are all constructed of fine brick, the last named being 
of elegant light brick and granite, and was erected during 
the past year. In this building are located the Flemington 
National Bank, and numerous stores, and on the upper 
floors are fine offices and residence flats. The Shields 
Building is a handsome structure near by. and also has 
stores, offices and residence rooms. Hopewell Hall has 
many law offices and a lodge room, and on the first floor 
are located the Hunterdon County National Bank and 
the Post Office. The Deats Building is also comparative- 
ly new, and has stores, offices and a fine lodge room. 
'Express Companies. — The Adams and United States 
Express Companies both have offices here, and afford the 
citizens ample conveniences. 

In addition to these, an express messenger goes to New 
York every day for the accommodation of business men 
and all others who need his services. 

Telegraph and Telephone. — For quick messages the 
Western Union and Postal Telegraph companies are here 
to deliver dispatches to any part of the world. 



There is an excellent local telephone line with forty sub- 
scribers. It is purposed to extend the line to adjacent 
places. There is also a long distance telephone line. 

Newspapers. — Flemington has four weekly newspapers. 
The Hunterdon County Democrat was established Sep- 
tember 5, 1838, by George C. Seymour, Esq., and has had 
several proprietors. For the last twenty-three years it 
has been owned and edited by the late Robert J. Killgore. 
Mr. Killgore recently died, and on the first of November. 
1898. the paper was sold by his executor to the son of the 
late proprietor. Anthony Killgore, who had been the bus- 
iness manager and associate editor for five years past. 
. The Hunterdon Republican was founded in 1856 by 
Thomas E. Bartow, Esq. In 1863 he sold the property to 
George A. Allen, of Flemington. and the paper was con- 
tinued under the editorial control of .-Mien & Callis. In 
1872 Mr. .\Hen retired, and William G. Callis. the present 
editor and proprietor, assumed entire control. In 1881. 
after the death of Mr. .Mien. Mr. Callis purchased the 
plant. 

The Democrat -.\dvertiser is the successor of The Hun- 
terdon .Advertiser, which was established by Mr. George 
C. Hughes, in 1879. In 1880. John L. Voorhees. a promi- 
nent lawyer of Flemington. and John L. Jones purchased 
the interest of Mr. Hughes, changed the name and en- 
larged the paper. Later Mr. Voorhees acquired the whole 
interest, and afterward took his son, Harry Martin Voor- 
hees, into partnership in the enterprise. On the death of 
J. N. Voorhees his son became sole editor and proprietor. 

The Home Visitor was first published in Quakertown. 
N. J., by Rev. C. Clark, a Methodist Episcopal clergyman, 
as a prohibition organ. It was thence removed to French- 
town, and from there to Clinton. Some years ago the 
plant was brought to Flemington. The paper has always 
been an exponent of temperance principles, and reaches a 
large class of readers. It is now in the seventeenth year. 

Ediicationai. Faoilitirs. — Flemington has one of the best 



high schools in the state. Reading Academy was built in 
1862, and since then has had a high reputation as an in- 
stitution of learning. The present principal is T. J. Bissell. 
who took charge in September last, as the successor of 
S. B. Gilhuly, and under him is a corps of ten most excel 
lent teachers. All grades are taught, from the earliest rud- 
iments to those higher branches which fit a pupil for en- 
trance into any college or upon a business career. Stu- 
dents are instructed in Greek, Latin. German and higher 
mathematics, and great pains are taken to give them a 
thorough knowledge of the subjects pursued. At the pres- 
ent time the school numbers 421 pupils. The present school 
building, although commodious, is not now large enough 
to accommodate the number desiring to attend, and this 
year the citizens appropriated $7,000 for the enlargement 
of the building, and for refitting it with all modern appli 
ances. This will in all probability be done during the 
coming year. 

Churches. — There are six churches in Flemington — 
Baptist, Presbyterian, Methodist Episcopal, Protestant 
Episcopal, Catholic and A. M. E. Church. 

Baptist Church. — The first Baptist meeting-house was 
built in 1766, although at that time there was no church 
organization, and was none until 1798. 

It was called the Baptist meeting in Amwell, as what is 
now Raritan township was then a part of Amwell, and was 
not set off as a separate township until 1838. 

The building was used for various meetings and other 
purposes, the Presbyterians worshiping there for a time. 

During the Revolution it was used for barracks and a 
hospital for soldiers. 

In I7y8 fifteen persons were constituted into a regular 
Baptist church, called the Baptist Church of Amwell. 

In 1836 they built a new church edifice, which stood un 
til 1868, when the present handsome structure was erected 
on the corner of ^Iain and Church streets. 

The pastors since the organization have been James Mc- 



Laughlin. D. Sweeny, Charles Bartolette, Clarence W. 
Mulford, Levi G. Beck, Thomas Swaim, E. A. Woods. 
T. E. Vassar, F, L. Chapell, J. E. Sagebeer and the pres- 
ent pastor. L. D. Temple, who was chosen during the 
present year. 

The membership is about five hundred 




View ok the Soith Br.^nch. 

President. Board of Trustees. William J. Suydam; Sec- 
retary, Jesse Merrell; Church Clerk, George E. Britton. 

Presbyterian Church. — The Presbyterian Church was 
organized in 1792, and for a time worshiped in the Bap- 
tist meeting-house. In 1793 a church building was 
erected near where the upper part of the Presbyterian 



graveyard now is. It faced south, and immediately in front 
of it, in the forks of the road, stood a tavern. That has 
now given place to the present church edifice. The first 
church stood until 1856, wlien another building was erected 
on the tavern site, the land having been purchased by the 
church authorities. In 1883 the latter building was torn 
down and a new one erected in its place on the same spot. 
This is a beautiful Gothic structure of dark gray stone. It 
has a sloping floor, the pews arranged in the form of an 
amphitheatre, with seating capacity of nearly 1,000. In 
the rear and constituting part of the same building is a 
beautiful chapel and Sunday School room. The situation 
of the church is one of the finest in the state. Recently, 
a new and handsome pipe organ has been placed in the 
church. 

From its organization to the present time it has had 
but seven pastors. The first pastor was Thomas Grant, 
who for a time served both this church and the older 
church in .-Kniwell, located then near Reaville. His pas- 
torate continued from 1791 to 1809. He was succeeded by 
Jacob Ten Eyck Field, who remained only three years — 
from 1810 to 1813. The church was then without a pastor 
for nearly two years. 

John Flavel Clark was then called, whose pastorate con- 
tinued from 1815 to 1836. In 1837 James \Iunson Olm- 
stead became the pastor and remained until 1849. He was 
succeeded by John L. Janeway in 1850, and he was pas- 
tor until 1868. During one year of that time he was a 
chaplain in the Union Army. The pastorate of George 
Scudder Mott was the longest of any, running from 1869 
to 1895. During his pastorate the new church was erected, 
and in 1894 centennial services were held covering a period 
of three days. He also prepared and published an ex- 
cellent history of the church. 

The present pastor, James W. Rogan, was installed in 
November, 1896, 

The membership is about five hundred. 



President, Board of Trustees, John B. Hopewell; Sec- 
retary and Treasurer, William H. Bartles; Clerk of Ses- 
sion, Elias Vosseller. 

Methodist Episcopal Church. — The first steps towards 
the establishment of a Methodist Episcopal Church in 
this place were taken in 1822. Ralph Stout, a local 
preacher from New Brunswick, is said to have been the 
first Methodist in the village. In 1823 the first society 
grew out of what was known as the "Stony Ground Camp 
Meeting." The first class meeting was held in the old 
Fleming house, the first building erected in the village, and 
a place of worship was erected in 1824. This was built on 
the west side of Slain Street, in what was then the central 
part of the town. 

This continued as their place of worship for a long 
period of years, and after the burning of the Court House 
in 1828 the sessions of the Court were held here. In l88(S. 
ihey sold their church with the grounds, and the house was 
converted into fiats and business places. They then pur- 
chased land further up the street on the east side, and put 
up a handsome stone building, which is their present place 
of worship. It is somewhat similar in style to the Pres- 
byterian church, though not so large, and has a commo- 
dious chapel in the rear. In i88g they erected a new and 
handsome parsonage on the same lot, facing on SprinsJ 
Street. 

The first pastors were Bartholomew Wood and "Daddy" 
Moore, who began their work in 1825. Since 1862 the 
church has had the following pastors: S. H. Opdvke, J. P. 
Daily, David Walters, H. H. Brown, G. H.'Wmans, 
Samuel Morris, T. E. Gordon, R. Johns, S. B. Rooney. F. 
A. Mason, C. S. Ryman, G. C. Moulsdale. The present 
pastor, Wesley Martin, came to Flemington in 1896. A: 
that time there was an indebtedness of $6,000 on the church, 
which has all been provided for during Mr. Martin's pas- 
torate by the plan of securing personal notes of $2,000 
each, payable in one, two and three years respectively. 




Presbyterian. 
CHURCHES. 



Catholic. 

:\Iethodist. 



with interest. This plan will leave the church free of debt 
on April i, 1899. The church is prosperous and has a 
membership of three hundred. 

President of Board of Trustees— Dr. Isaac S. Cramer; 
Secretary. Wni. H. Bodine. 

The Baptist and Presbyterian Churches have strong and 
effective Christian Endeavor Societies connected with 
them, and the Methodist Church has a very active and 
energetic Epworth League. 

Protestant Episcopal Church. — In the early days a 
Protestant Episcopal Church existed here, but for many 
years there was no church organization. Some twenty-five 
years ago the denomination reorganized, and later built a 
pleasant stone edifice on Broad Street. They have no 
resident pastor, but services are held there each Sundav 
afternoon. 

Catholic Church. — The Catholic Church is located on 
the west side of New Street. They have had an organi- 
zation here for many years, but have no resident clergy- 
man. A clergyman from High Bridge officiates. 

A. M. E. Church. — The church of the colored people is 
located on North Broad Street, and almost all of the 
colored people attend its services. It belongs to the Bethel 
Branch of the A. M. E. denomination. 

Societies and Organizations. — Darcy Lodge, No. y], 
F. & A. M., was organized in 1856, and has been a con- 
tinuous organization from that time until the present. It 
is a prosperous and influential institution, and has among 
its members many Chapter and Commandery Masons. Its 
present membership is 76. W. M. — H. E. Deals; Secretary 
— John C. Sunderlin. Meets first and third Thursdays, at 
8:00 P. M. 

Wickcheoche Tribe. No. 24, Imp'd O. R. M., was insti- 
tuted in 1871. It now has a membership of 119. Sachem — 
Charles Harsell; C. of R.— John Parks. Meets on Friday, 
at 7:30 P. M. 

Flemington Lodge. No. 94. I. O. O. F..was organized in 



January. 1875, and during the intervening period to the 
present time has been of vast material aid to its members. 
It has always enjoyed prosperity, and is in excellent finan- 
cial condition, having a cash balance of about $3,000 at the 
present time. It has paid out much in sick and death 
benefits, and has through its committees watched at many 
sick beds, and brought relief to many a weary heart. There 
are 115 members at the present time. N. G. — K. H. Van 
Marter; Secretary — W'. S. Buchanan. Meets on Monday, 
at 7:30 P. M. 

.\delphi Encampment. No. 19. is connected with this 
organization, and has a membership of 45. Through the 
Encampment many have been able to provide substantial 
insurance for their families. The Encampment was organ- 
ized in February. 1883. and has the following officers: C. 
P.— William S. Kline; H. P.— A. B. Stout; Scribe- 
Howard Sutphin. 

Flemington Council. No. 731. Royal Arcanum, was 
organized February 23d, 1886, and now has a membership 
of 100. Regent — Mahlon Schenck; Secretary — A. C. Hul- 
sizer. Meets first and third Tuesdays at 8:00 P. .\L 

Crescent Lodge. No. 93. K. of P.. was instituted on May 
6th, 1886. It has 60 members and is in a thriving, pros- 
perous condition. It has an Endowment Rank connected 
with it, and many members have availed themselves of this 
to secure insurance. Duriilg its existence the lodge has 
lost only one member by death. Chancellor Commander — 
O. P. Chamberlin, Jr.; Keeper of Records and Seal — Jos. 
P. Burd. Meets on Wednesday, at 8:00 P. M. 

Flemington Council, No. 191, Jr. O. U. A. M., was 
organized in 1894. Its membership is 114. Councillor — 
William H. Kline; Secretary — J. H. Dean. Meets on 
Thursday, at 7:30 P. M. 

Flemington Camp. No. 46. Grand Fraternity, was organ- 
ized August 22d. 1895. and numbers 54 members. Com- 
mander — George Probasco; Secretary — William V. Ram- 
sey. Meets on second and fourth Tuesdays, at 8:00 P. M. 




Main and Broad Streets. 




Residence of Captain John Shields. 




Interiors— Residence of Captain John Shields. 




The Falls on the South Branch. 
Residences of Geo. W. Dunham and B. F. Dewey. 




The Flemington Nationai, Bank. 



Castle No. 41, K. G. E., was organized in April, 1898 
It has a memljership of 70. N. C. — John Parkes; Secre- 
tary — Harvey Dean. Meets on Tuesday, at 8:00 P. M. 

Hunterdon Club was organized in 1887. and is of a 
purely social character. Its present membership is 25. 
President — William G. Callis; Secretary — Bergen H. 
Berkaw. 

Lambert Boeman Post No. 48, G. A. R., was organized 
in 1880. and at the present time about 90 veterans of the 
late Civil War constitute its membership. The Com- 
mander is John Foran and .-^djustant. .\. W. Boss. 
On May i. 1888, Lambert Boeman Relief Corps, No. 19 
was organized and became auxiliary to it. Both of these 
institutions have rendered many kindly services to the old 
soldiers, and also contributed aid in the Cuban cause. 

Each year the Memorial Day exercises are under their 
direction and supervision. 

The President of the Relief Corps is Miss Mary Sunder- 
lin. and the Secretary is Miss Mamie M. Foran. 

Hunterdon County Historical Society. — While the 
Hunterdon County Historical Society is more an institu- 
tion of the whole county than of the village, yet its archives 
are here, and many of its members reside here, and 
Flemington feels a peculiar interest in the organization. 

The Society has been in existence a great many years, 
but it was only on October 29th, 1898, that it became d 
corporate body. It was then incorporated under a recent 
act of the legislature of New Jersey, and seven trustees 
were elected. The Society has taken great pains to gather 
up old historical facts, particularly those relating to the 
Revolution, and to get possession of old records, manu- 
scripts and relics. The valuables of the Society are in the 
custody of the Librarian, H. E. Deats, at Flemington. 

Dr. Isaac S. Cramer is president and John W. Laquear 
is recording secretary, and Elias Vosseller is correspond- 
ing secretary. 



ELIAS VOSSELLER. 

Mr, Vosseller began business in 1870. At that time he 
occupied only one room in the Hopewell Building, but 
to-day four rooms are necessar}- for carrying on the busi- 
ness. The store contains a wide range of articles, the 
more important of which are named in this sketch. The 
Book and Stationery Department is the oldest part of the 
business and includes current and standard books and 
everything in stationery supplies. All the standard 
makes of Pianos and Organs are sold ; also violins, banjos, 
and all small musical instruments. The store may trulv 
he regarded as headquarters for the amateur photographer. 
Everything he needs may be purchased here, whether 
cameras or photographic supplies of any kind. A beau- 
tiful assortment of framed engravings is kept and special 
attention is given to framing pictures of any kind at short 
notice. During the holiday season particular attention 
is given to the toy and to the 5 and 10 cent counters, 
where many novelties may be seen. A very interesting 
part of the store is the department of fancy goods and 
bnc-a-brac, filled with beautiful articles of various kinds. 
Another part of the business is the sale of sewing ma- 
chines of standard make. 

A feature of the store which is of general interest is 
the circulating library, which Mr. Vosseller started not 
so nnich for the sake of any pecuniary returns as for the 
general convenience of the people. The library has a 
good selection of light literature and only a nominal 
charge is made for its use. 




The Shields Building. 












"|« *)-?:' 







Thk Hopeweli. 
Botldings. 



Beats Building. 
Thk County Building. 



THE HUNTERDON COUNTY NATIONAL BANK 

Of Flemington. 

'TPHIS bank is the oldest financial institution in Hunterdon Connt\'. It is the successor of the old 
Hunterdon County Bank, organized in 1854 under the State banking laws. Afterward, it received 
a special charter from the State Legislature, and thus continued until May. 1S6",, when it was changed 
into a National Bank. It has a capital of $100,000.00. 

Its early directors and presidents were men of great prominence in the town and count\' and laid 
well the foinidations of the bank's future prosperity. Among the prominent men who .served as direct- 
ors of the bank were Judge \'an Syckel, Vice-Chancellor Wan Fleet, \'ice-Chancellor Bird, John G. 
Reading and Andrew \'an Sickle. The bank has always been conservative in its way of doing business, 
yet ready to take advantage of new conditions and new methods. It is in a prosperous condition to-day 
and bids fair to arrive at its half century of existence with greater prosperity than ever. 

The first president of the bank was Isaac G. Farlee : the succeeding presidents ha\-e been Geo. A. 
Allen, Charles Bartles, John C. Hopewell, Judiali Higgins, John W. Priestly, and the present head of 
the bank, Jonathan Higgins. The cashiers have been William Emery, Charles Tomlin.son, C. C. Dun- 
ham, John B. Hopewell, and A. H. Rittenhouse, the present cashier. 

The officers are : President, Jonathati Higgins : \'ice-President, John A. Bidlock ; Cashier, A. H. 
Rittenhou.se. The present board of directors consists of Jonathan Higgins, John A. Bullock, A. H. 
Rittenhouse, John B. Hopewell, Jo.siah C. Britton, Joseph Sergeant, \\'ni. G. Callis, Peter Q. 
Holcombe and Henry A. Apgar. 



LAKE'S HOTEL. 




This popular hostelry 
affords the best accom- 
modations to both tran- 
sient and permanent 
guests. It is well equip- 
ped ill every way, having 
electric lights and bells, 
hot and cold baths, and 
steam heat throughout 
the liouse. A splendid 
table is set ; the butter 
and eggs being obtained 
from the dairy fai m of 
tlie proprietor. The ser- 
vice is excellent. The 
hotel is newly furnished 
and the rooms are large 
and light. There are six 
large parlors on the first 
floor and two verandas. 
This hotel is especially ad- 
apted for summer board- 
ers and has been well 
filled during the past 
season. Mr. W. Howard 
Lake, the genial propri- 
etor, is a model host, and 
takes a personal interest 
in the comfort of his 
guests. 



J. p. BODINE & SONS. 

This is the oldest busi- 
ness house in Flemiiigton, 
having been established in 
1S5S. The firm is com- 
posed of J. P. Bodine and 
his sons, Wni. H. Bodine 
and F. J. Bodine, who were 
admitted into partnership 
on Jan. i, 1891. No firm 
in the town has a more en- 
viable reputation for busi- 
ness integrity and sagacity, 
and the junior members of 
the firm are preserving the 
credit earned b)' the senior 
partner in his long business 
career. The firm transacts 
a general hardware and fur- 
niture business. The hard- 
ware store carries every kind of general and builders 
hardware and a very complete line of artistic fittings for 
houses. The stock of house furnishing goods contains 
everything needed by the hou.sekeeper. Every spring 
the firm sells many complete outfits. Several makes of 
lii^h grade bicycles are sold, and a large assortment of 
bicycle sundries is kept. A large business is done in 
paints, oils and white lead. An additional building is 
used as a furniture warehouse and a large variety of the 
best furniture carried. 




NEVIUS BROS. 

This store, without any 
question, is the leading drj- 
goods house of the place. 
It is the only exclusive dry 
goods house in Fleniin.Lton 
and carries the finest line 
of goods. An especially 
large display of cloaks and 
capes is made each year. 
.Another department of ini- 
))ortance is that of ladies' 
ready-made suits. In re- 
gard to dress foods, it is 
only necessary to say that 
all new designs are always 
shown first in this store. 
The firm has three stores, 
one at Flemiiigton, at New 
Brunswick and at Somer- 
ville. Mr. .\ustin (',. Nevius. the resident partner here, 
has been in business twenty years. He has been prom- 
inently identified with various public enterprises. Mr. 
I'. J. Young is the manager of the New Brunswick house. 
Mr. Jacob Nevius, the manager of the SomerviUe house, 
is also connected with a prominent wholesale house in 
New York. Having three stores and a partner in the 
wholesale business, it will be easily seen that the firm 
has unusual advantages in buying. Their customers 
profit by this in liOth quality and price of goods. 



FRED'K. WM. ROSE. 




This store carries a fine line of Furniture of the 
best make and style. A good assortment of Stnves at 
very reasonable prices and also of Cabinet Hardware is 
kept. A special feature of the business is the Carpet and 
Upholstery department. 

Mr. Rose is well known in the social and business life 
of the town and is a prominent member of the K. G. E., 
being the first Past Chief of the local lodjje. 



THE ALLEN & VAN NEST CO. 

This company, which commenced business under the 
firm name of .^llen & Van Nest, was incorporated in 
February, 1897, as the Allen & Van Nest Co., with a 
capital of 130,000.00. The company has its main offices 
at 127 Worth Street, Xew York City, and also has an 
office and shops at Flemington. Mr. E. B. .\llen of 
Flemington is President of the company ; Mr. M. C. Van 
Nest, of German Valley, N. J., Vice-President; I\Ir. P. 
E. Garretson, of Peekskill, N. Y.. Secretary and Treas- 
urer. A general business in steam and hot water 
heating is transacted. 

Mr. .Allen has had over seven years, and Mr. Van 
Nest thirteen years, practical experience in the business. 

The Bundy and the Torrid heaters are the two 
leaders, although any style of heater manufactured is 
used if desired. In 1S99, a new boiler, made from the 
company's own plans, will be used. The company has a 
new system of heating known as the vapor system 
which is meeting with success. The Flemington shop 
is well equipped for plumbing of every description : 
this shop has had over fifty contracts for putting in 
heating apparatus in the town. 

The company has done a large amount of work in 
New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania. Recently, it 
drew tue plans and sent the material for a large contract 
in Indianapolis, Indiana. 

The companv will make contracts for heating any class 
of buildings and in any section of the country, and will 
give free estimates. The company has practical and 
progressive men in charge, and is recognized as a leader 
in the business. 



A. T. CONNET. 

Mr. Connet has been identified with the business 
interests of Flemington for a number of jears, having 
coninienced business in 1865. He is the largest v^ hole- 
sale dealer in Produce, F!ggs, Poultry and Pork 
in this section. Ever}- year, he ships about a million ami 
a half eggs and also large quantities of produce and 
poultry. 

Mr. Connet represents a number of the best Fire In- 
surance Companies in existence anil writes the largest 
amount of business of any agency in town. He h; s the 
entire confidence of both the companies and his patrons 

Mr. Connet has always been interested in all pulilic 
improvemenis. 

S. L. HART. 
The Jewelry Store of Mr. Hart is one of the 
successful business houses of Flemington, having been 
established in 187S. A large and varied assortment of 

Watclies, Clocks, SilverMare 
and Pine Jewelry is kept. 

Special attention is given to the Optical Department, 
which is in charge of a graduate optician. 

Mr. Hart is a vers' skilful watch repairer and an ex- 
pert in that line. He is one of the official watch in- 
spectors of the Lehigh Valley R. R. 



THE DEMOCRAT-ADVERTISER. 

.\n .S-page Weekly Newspaper, filled with interesting 
local happenings anil the General News of the day. 

$1 00 Per Year 

I'uhl shed Hvery Thursday Morning. 

Hknrv Martin Voorhees, Editor and Proprietor. 
I. R. RfNKi.E, Local Editor. 



CHARLES V. WEILER, 
HOT AIR HEATING. 

ROOFING AND 

SHEET METAL WORK. 
STOVES AND RANGES. 



Main Street, 



Flemington, N. J. 



JAMES A. KLINE, 

IH.ALI.K l.N 

HARDWARE, STOVES, PAINTS, OILS, 
TINWARE, SEWER PIPE, ETC. 

Steam and Hot-Water Heating and Plumbin.s;. 



THE HUNTERDON REPUBLICAN. 

ILKMINI'.TilN, X. I 

Ha.s a good circulation among the best people, 
and is a valuable advertising medium. 
Gives all the local and general news served in 
a readable manner. 

ONE DOLLAR PER YEAR. 

ADVERTISING RATES LIBERAL. 
JOB PRINTING OF ALL KINDS. 
WM. G-. CALLIS, Editor and Publisher. 



DR. ISAAC S. CRAMER. 




The store which Dr. Cramer occupies has been in constant use 
as a Drug Store for twenty years and is one of the best known 
business places in town. Dr. Cramer practiced medicine for 35 
years at Sergeantsville, and in 1SS9, having been elected Surrogate, 
removed to Fleraington He has taken an active interest in town 
affairs. The Drug Store was acquired in 1S97 and a large business 
is transacte'i, especially in the prescription department. A very 
large and attractive assortment of perfumes and all toilet requisites 
is kept. In short, it is a first-class store. Mr. Robt. P. Dinges. a 
graduate of the Philadelphia College of Pharmacy, and who has 
had 27 years experience, is the efficient assistant in the store. 



HARRY L. STOUT, 
ATTORN I{ V -AT- L A W 



OFFICK IN P. (1. Hru Dive; 



KLEMIXCTOX, X. J 



THE FLEMING-TON WATER CO., 

INXCIRPCIRATHD IN.SQ. 



John A. Bullock, President. 

John H. Hopewell, Treas. ami Supt. 



D. S. HALL. 
CLOTHIER AND MEN'S FURNLSHER. 

Next to Fltmingtoil National Bank. 

FLEMINGTOX, N. J. 



MILK SHIPPING STATION, 



Farmers' Dairy Despatch. 



On Lehiah Valley R. R 




THE HOME VISITOR. 

HuxTEKDOx County's Leading Paper. 

The largest circulation of any paper in thi.s 
section of New Jersey. 

Published every Wednesday at Fleniington, X. J. 



Wm. V. Ramsev, Editor and Proprietor. 



JOHN L. CONNET, 
COUNSELLOR-AT-LAW. 

Practices in .State and U. S Courts. 
Office in Hciphwem, Haij,. 

SUNDERLIN'S STUDIO 

?*iiriiislied all the Photographs fur this book. 

Particular attention given to i)hotognipliing Residences, 

Street Scenes, Animals, etc , also to copying 

and renewing old pictures and docnnionts. 

JOHN OTT, THE JEWELER. 

Has bargains all tlie \ear round tor his patron^i. Not 
only are there 

Displays of Novelties at Special Seasons, 

but there's sonietliing to interest \<iu am lime in tlie 
year. There are 

Watches, Diamonds, Silverware, 

and everything else you expect to see in a 

FIRST-CLASS JEWELRY STORE. 

A specialty is made of Repairing Fine Watches. 

Silverware engraved without extra charge. 

Eves examined free. 



THE FLEMINGTON GAS LIGHT CO. 

INCORPOR.4TEI) 1859. 
JOHN B. HOPEWELL, President and Manager. 

THE PROSPECT HILL 

CEMETERY ASSOCIATION, 
OF FLEMINGTON. 

INCORPORATED MARCH 16, 1870. 
I)K. W.M. H. BarTLES, President. 
John B. Hopewell, Sec. and Treas. 

ALL INQUIRIES . . . 

Ill regard to Fleniington Real Estate, 
locations for country and suburban resi- 
dences, sites for manufacturing purposes, 
and any other questions about the tov\ai 
will lie promptly answered by 

H. M. VOORHEES, 

Flemington, N. J. 



LIBRftRY OF CONGRESS 

llllllll'l1llini|l|||{1lllll|l|||{Mi|!i!||||i||||lll 



014 432 945 4 % 



